Air Fryer Baking: Can You Use A Pan?

Air fryers are a great alternative to traditional ovens, especially when baking in small batches or when it's hot outside. They are essentially small convection ovens that use hot air instead of hot oil or fat to simulate frying. This means that any oven-safe dishware can be used in an air fryer, including metal, non-stick dark pans, cast iron, silicone moulds, aluminium, ceramic, and tempered glass. However, it is important to ensure that the dishware fits properly in the air fryer, allowing for adequate airflow, and that it can withstand the high temperatures generated by the appliance.

Any oven-safe dishware can be used in an air fryer

An air fryer is essentially a small convection oven that uses hot air to cook food instead of hot oil or fat. It is a healthier, faster, and more energy-efficient alternative to traditional frying methods.

Since air fryers are small convection ovens, any dishware that is oven-safe can be used in an air fryer. This includes metal, ceramic, and glass dishware, as well as silicone molds and aluminum pans. However, it is important to ensure that the dishware is labelled as oven-safe to avoid any warping or melting.

When choosing dishware for your air fryer, it is important to consider the size and shape of both the air fryer and the dishware. The dishware should be small enough to allow for proper air circulation but large enough to cook a sufficient quantity of food. It should also be tall enough to contain the food without blocking the heating element.

Additionally, it is recommended to avoid dishware with large handles, as they can get in the way and prevent the dish from fitting into the air fryer. Instead, opt for dishware with minimal or no handles to maximize the usable space in the air fryer.

It is also important to note that glass dishware should be used with caution in an air fryer due to the rapid changes in temperature, which can cause it to crack.

Pans should be small enough to allow for proper air circulation

When selecting a pan to use in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the pan is small enough to allow for proper air circulation. The pan should not be too tall or too wide, as this can block the airflow and impede the cooking process.

The ideal pan for an air fryer is one that is tall enough to contain the food without blocking the heating element and leaves enough room for air circulation. It is also important to consider the shape of the air fryer when choosing a pan. For example, a square pan may fit better in a square air fryer, while a round pan may be more suitable for a round air fryer.

To ensure proper airflow, it is recommended to use bakeware with minimal or no handles. The handles on some baking dishes can get in the way and prevent the dish from fitting properly into the air fryer. By choosing bakeware with smaller or no handles, you can fit larger dishes into the air fryer, maximising the cooking space.

Additionally, it is crucial to select a pan that is oven-safe and suitable for high temperatures. Air fryers cook with high heat, so any pan not rated for high temperatures may warp or melt. Always check for an oven-safe label before using a pan in an air fryer.

When in doubt, measure the interior of your air fryer to determine the best size and shape of the pan. The interior size of air fryers can vary, even among those with the same overall capacity. By taking measurements, you can ensure that your pan fits properly and allows for adequate airflow.

Pans should be oven-safe to withstand the high heat of air fryers

Air fryers are essentially small convection ovens that use hot air to cook food, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. They are versatile and can be used for frying, roasting, grilling, and baking.

When using an air fryer, it is important to choose the right type of pan to ensure optimal cooking results and to avoid damaging the appliance. While most foods cooked in an air fryer do not require special pans, wet foods and dishes with sauces or batters may require a deeper pan to prevent dripping.

The key consideration when selecting a pan for your air fryer is to ensure that it is oven-safe and can withstand high temperatures. Pans made of metal, ceramic, or tempered glass are good options as they can handle high heat and distribute heat evenly. Silicone moulds are also suitable, but may require adjustments to cooking times as they don't conduct heat as efficiently as metal pans.

It is important to avoid using pans with large handles as they can get in the way and prevent the pan from fitting properly into the air fryer. Instead, opt for bakeware with minimal or no handles to maximise the usable space inside the air fryer. Additionally, ensure that the pan is not too tall, as it should not block the heating element or impede airflow.

By choosing oven-safe pans that fit properly and allow for adequate airflow, you can enhance your cooking experience and achieve delicious results with your air fryer.

Pans should be shallow to avoid touching the heating element

Pans used in an air fryer should be shallow to avoid touching the heating element. The heating element and fan are at the top of the air fryer, so using a pan that is too tall will block the heating element and could damage the appliance. Pans with minimal or no handles are best, as they allow for larger capacity baking dishes to fit into the air fryer.

The best size for basket-type air fryers is a 5-8 inch round or square cake pan. The depth of the air fryer should also be considered when choosing a pan. A pan that is too deep or tall may hit the top of the air fryer and touch the heating element. The more shallow the pan, the faster the cake will bake.

It is important to note that any bakeware labelled as "oven-safe" will work with an air fryer. However, some oven-safe dishware may have a limit on how hot they can be heated, so it is important to ensure that the bakeware can withstand the temperature required for your recipe.

Glassware is not recommended due to the risk of cracking

Glassware is not recommended for use in an air fryer due to the risk of cracking. The rapid changes in temperature can cause glass to crack, so it is best to avoid using glass baking dishes or plates in your air fryer. Instead, opt for metal, ceramic, or silicone bakeware that is labelled as oven-safe. Additionally, avoid bakeware with large handles as they can get in the way and prevent the dish from fitting into the air fryer basket or oven.

When choosing bakeware for your air fryer, it is important to consider the size and shape of your air fryer's interior. Measure the interior dimensions of your air fryer to ensure that your bakeware will fit properly, allowing for adequate airflow. The best size for basket-type air fryers is typically a 5-8 inch round or square cake pan, or a 6-cup bundt pan. Shallow pans are preferable as they allow for faster cooking and ensure that the pan does not touch the heating element.

It is also important to consider the type of food you will be cooking. For wet foods or dishes with sauces, use a deep pan to prevent dripping and smoking. For delicate items like muffins and cakes, silicone moulds are ideal as they allow for easy removal. Metal pans, such as muffin pans, cake pans, or sheet pans, are excellent for conducting heat quickly and evenly. Non-stick dark pans are perfect for achieving a crispy texture without sticking, while cast iron pans are great for recipes that require high heat.

Remember to always use oven-safe dishware and avoid materials that cannot withstand high temperatures, such as plastic or paper. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your cooking experience with an air fryer is safe and enjoyable.

Frequently asked questions